Vaccine hesitancy in Hispanics is rooted in beliefs, not science.

Vaccines are praised as one of the 20th century's most significant public health triumphs, dramatically reducing the spread of infectious diseases.

‍

Today, vaccine opposition persists, leading to the resurgence of diseases once thought eradicated or under control. The situation underscores the critical need for widespread vaccination. Resistance to vaccines isn't new.

‍

It dates back to the early 1800s when the smallpox vaccine faced sanitary, religious, and political objections.

‍

Similar resistance surfaced in the 1970s with the DTP vaccine due to concerns about neurological disorders despite studies showing minimal risks. Some refuse vaccines on religious grounds, even though most religions do not oppose vaccination. Another prevalent belief is that improved sanitation and hygiene, not vaccines, eliminated diseases. Many believe vaccines are ineffective and pose more significant risks than benefits.

‍

In the U.S., concerns about autism persist despite being debunked by numerous studies. The CDC maintains that vaccines are safe and do not cause autism.

‍

Some view pharmaceutical companies as profit-driven entities that cannot be trusted, regardless of extensive clinical trials and scientific research supporting vaccine safety. Others prefer natural immunity over vaccine-induced immunity, ignoring the higher risks of contracting vaccine-preventable diseases. A general mistrust of science and government, exacerbated by mandatory vaccination laws, fuels resistance. Some people, lacking supporting information, favor home remedies and "natural" or homeopathic treatments over vaccines. Vaccine refusal extends beyond individual risk, posing significant public health threats. For example, the U.S. saw over 600 measles cases in 2014, despite the disease being declared eradicated in 2002, primarily due to vaccine denials.

‍

For many Hispanics, vaccine hesitancy is relatively new.

‍

In Latin America, there is traditionally a strong, trust-based relationship between patients and their doctors, focusing on health rather than time transactions. This trust often resulted in high vaccination rates because people relied on doctors' advice for their health decisions. However, in the U.S., Hispanics now face a landscape filled with numerous media outlets, many managed by individuals without the necessary credentials to provide accurate scientific and medical information. This shift has contributed to increased misinformation and vaccine hesitancy within the community​​.

‍

Understanding how deeply religion and the power of word of mouth run in the Hispanic community, we can leverage these elements to promote the idea of prevention first and vaccination second at local levels, expanding efforts in key markets where Hispanics are concentrated. This approach can significantly influence the community's acceptance of vaccination, emphasizing the role of trusted sources and cultural nuances.

‍

Vaccine hesitancy among Hispanics presents unique challenges and opportunities.

‍

There is a notable generational divide. Older Hispanics are more likely to get vaccinated "as soon as possible," whereas younger Hispanics often prefer to "wait and see."​​ Medical mistrust, misinformation, and logistical barriers like transportation and language significantly contribute to hesitancy​​.

A key opportunity lies in providing information in Spanish on branded and unbranded websites, as language is vital for fostering trust and comprehension within the Hispanic community. Given that Spanish is the second most spoken language in the U.S. and Hispanics are the largest minority group, providing resources in Spanish is crucial for empowering them to start conversations with doctors and make informed and healthier decisions.

Vaccination laws for school enrollment and community engagement are needed. Working with community leaders and creating culturally sensitive public health campaigns can help reduce vaccine hesitancy. Addressing safety concerns and giving clear information about vaccine ingredients and how they are made can also build trust.

‍

Facing vaccine hesitancy is vital for safeguarding public health.

‍

By comprehending and addressing the factors driving vaccine resistance through clear information and dialogue, we can achieve better health outcomes for all. Learning historical contexts, common opposition reasons and specific concerns is essential to understanding vaccine hesitancy.

‍

^{Sources: UCO Blogs, BioMed Central, Life at OSU, Verywell Health, KFF.​}

^{Photo by Fern M. Lomibao.}

‍